The Food Bank of South Jersey (FBSJ) has announced the appointment of Jane Asselta as its new president and Chief Executive Officer, effective Febr. 16. A South Jersey native with over two decades of leadership experience, Asselta succeeds Fred Wasiak, who led the organization through a period of historic growth and pandemic-era challenges.
Asselta joins the Food Bank at a critical juncture as the organization scales its operations to meet a rising monthly demand for food assistance across the region.
Asselta’s career has been defined by a deep commitment to the economic and social stability of New Jersey. Her professional background includes:
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USDA Rural Development: Most recently served as New Jersey State Director, overseeing statewide investments in housing, clean energy, and community facilities.
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Southern New Jersey Development Council (SNJDC): Spent over a decade as Vice President, fostering partnerships between business and government leaders.
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Nonprofit Strategy: Over 20 years of experience in fundraising and strategic economic development.
“She was born and raised in South Jersey and brings a deep knowledge of our service area along with strong public-sector and nonprofit leadership experience,” Jeffrey Hayman, chair of the Food Bank of South Jersey’s Board of Trustees said.
Under Asselta’s leadership, the Food Bank will continue to pivot toward a “food as medicine” approach. This includes the expansion of the Center for Health, Wellness, and Nutrition, which officially began welcoming guests in 2025. The center addresses the social drivers of health by providing neighbors with nutrition education and wellness classes alongside traditional food distribution.
“I look forward to continuing that legacy by strengthening partnerships, deepening our nutrition and wellness efforts, and ensuring our neighbors have the resources they need to thrive,” Asselta said.
